Tech Optimizer
July 4, 2026
Windows includes a built-in virus checker called Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which allows users to conduct virus scans.
1. To initiate a scan, open Windows Security, navigate to Virus & threat protection, and select Quick scan for a fast check.
2. Users can check which antivirus is active by going to Who's protecting me? in Windows Security. If a non-Microsoft antivirus is installed, Microsoft Defender will disable itself.
3. Before scanning, it's important to update the security intelligence by checking for updates in Protection updates.
4. A full scan can be executed by selecting Full scan in Scan options, while a custom scan allows users to specify a location to check.
5. For stubborn malware, Microsoft Defender Offline can be used, which requires a restart of Windows.
6. Scan results and quarantined threats can be reviewed in Protection history after any scan.
7. For additional checks, users can utilize VirusTotal for individual files or links, Microsoft Safety Scanner for a one-time scan, or the Malicious Software Removal Tool for specific malware.
8. Outdated tools like the Chrome Cleanup Tool and Norton Power Eraser should be disregarded as they are no longer effective.
Users can scan individual files without scanning the entire PC, and results from the Microsoft Defender Offline scan are found in Protection history. The Microsoft Safety Scanner does not replace real-time antivirus protection, and managed devices can be scanned by IT administrators.
